The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) announced on Tuesday the release of several fighters, including Cuban heavyweight Robelis Despaigne, who once stirred great interest among mixed martial arts (MMA) fans at the beginning of 2024.
Despaigne, an Olympic bronze medalist in taekwondo from the 2012 London Games, made a spectacular debut at UFC 299. Last March, he needed just 18 seconds to knock out American Josh Parisian at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. This swift and decisive victory catapulted the fighter known as "Big Boy" into the spotlight, backed by his impressive record of four previous undefeated bouts, all won by knockout.
His journey began in June 2022, taking 4 minutes and 54 seconds to defeat Katuna Malumba. By July 2023, he needed only 12 seconds to dispatch Travis Gregoire; in September, it took just three seconds against Stevie Payne, and in December, he knocked out Miles Banks in four seconds. Despite this promising start, Despaigne's recent performances failed to meet expectations, highlighting the high stakes in the world's most prestigious MMA organization.
Challenges Ahead for Despaigne
The MMA Fighting website and X FC Roster Watch reported the release of the 2.01-meter giant following his losses to Dominican Waldo Cortés-Acosta in May and American Austen Lane on October 19, both by decision. Clearly, Despaigne did not manage to convince UFC president Dana White of his potential, and it remains to be seen if he can secure a spot in other organizations. To regain prominence, he will need to significantly improve his defense and ground game.